Climate change means an increasing possibility of unanticipated natural disasters worldwide and we need to be prepared.

Our warming earth is experiencing unanticipated, catastrophic changes in weather that has and will continue to affect every aspect of our lives, but especially our mental health and we need to begin to understand what is at risk and how to cope.

In all, 403 weather and climate catastrophes have occurred in the United States since 1980, with damages and expenses above $1 billion. The sum of these 403 occurrences is more than $2.915 trillion. The recent wildfires in California alone, never mind the rest of the country, are expected to account for over $250 billion for rebuilding and assistance to the local population.

Research conducted in 2024 suggests that to cope with natural disasters, people should seek professional help when needed, communicate openly about what happened, keep social connections with loved ones, practice self-care routines, limit their exposure to graphic disaster imagery, and be proactive in preparing for the event. It is important to recognize that vulnerable populations within affected communities have unique needs.

Many disasters have negative effects on people’s mental health, and the World Risk Report (2024) notes that this is especially true for women and other vulnerable groups. Some of these are:

1. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is more common because people are impacted by disasters.

2. During and after catastrophes, there is a higher incidence of sexual, interpersonal, and gender-specific violence, which can have a devastating impact on the mental health of women and marginalized groups.

3. The disruption of sexual and reproductive healthcare services caused by disasters can lead to an increase in the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases and unplanned pregnancies, as well as increased mental health stress.

4. Putting men and boys first in the food chain can have negative effects on women and girls’ mental health by reducing their food intake and increasing their risk of nutritional deficiencies.

5. Economic difficulties and increased household responsibilities can push children, particularly girls, to drop out of school, which can have a negative impact on their mental health. ?

6. More chance of early or forced marriage: Natural disasters increase the likelihood of child marriage and forced marriage, both of which can impact mental health in the long run.

7. Traditional masculine duties and the stigma associated with asking for or receiving assistance may contribute to an increased suicide rate among males.

8. There is an increased risk of injury and related mental health disorders for men since they are more likely to work in disaster management and reconstruction. ?

Inclusive and gender-sensitive approaches to catastrophe management and response are crucial, as these mental health impacts highlight. ?

The Way Forward

Recovering from any natural disaster involves in part, accepting that the life you had before will undergo change according to what has been affected in your area. Change, of course, means new housing arrangements, new neighborhoods or towns, a change in job location or career aspirations, and plans for the future. Some of it will seem daunting and most of it will require that you deal with a sense of loss or grief over what has happened.

Each person will go through the grieving process in their own way because grieving is natural and personal, so there are no specific steps for grieving "normally." The steps were arbitrary and based on a very small sample of dying patients and the researcher's personal observations. It was subjective. This information may provide some comfort for you.

Having a strong sense of community can help with the hardship of recovering from sudden disasters. When the time comes to begin the next phase of recovery — which may involve negotiating with insurance companies or even relocating — affected people might consider adopting new customs and gathering new sentimental objects to help them get through it.

In the aftermath of a tragedy, having a community of others who have been through the same thing can be a great comfort. Isolation is a significant obstacle to overcoming hardships. Sharing information and resources within a tight-knit community of neighbors and friends can also help determine what to do in the aftermath of a crisis. If ever there was a time for "togetherness," it would be after a natural or man-made disaster.

Tips on Personal Coping

Preparation, self-care, and establishing support networks are coping mechanisms. Here are some ways that you or someone you care about can cope:

1. Ensure your well-being as you are ensuring that of others.
   2. Maintain a balanced diet, stay away from drugs and alcohol, and release stress with exercise (even if it is only a short stroll or some deep breathing).
   3. Get in touch with loved ones.
   4. Discuss your emotions with a reliable person. Make sure your kids know it‘s alright to cry if needed.
   5. Keep informed as to what you need to know about the disaster, but lessen your intake of news. A person’s anxiety levels can rise, and the event may be relived in their minds due to the constant news coverage. Constantly going over something in your mind, rather than help you cope, can reinforce that negative experience to your detriment.

6. Sleep is important, even though it is difficult under some circumstances to sleep. But understand that getting proper sleep and rest is important for your physical and mental health, and you owe it to yourself. To get a better night’s rest, cut out coffee, electronics, and alcohol at least an hour before bedtime.

7. Create a schedule. Maintain consistent eating patterns. Ensure that there are enjoyable pursuits to anticipate.
8. Delay making life-altering choices. Often, in these types of circumstances, rash judgments may mean poor outcomes in the future. Give yourself time to consider carefully once you have sufficient information, and then discuss plans and changes with reliable sources.
Managing major changes, such as a change in careers following a calamity, can be challenging, so be prepared to consider changes that may require additional training and how you might be able to access that training. Often, areas needing it most, such as those recovering from natural disasters, offer training programs, and individuals can also receive grants for this training.

9. Be prepared for changes — they will come, undoubtedly. Disasters can cause long-term disruptions to people’s lives, such as the loss of their houses, schools, or jobs. Allow yourself plenty of time to heal.

10. Tackle pet care. Assisting with emotional rehabilitation with animals can be helpful.

11. Help in homeless shelters or go outside when the weather permits. A sense of purpose like this at difficult times can be helpful to you, as you can be helpful to others.

12. Be wary of someone who exhibits symptoms of substance abuse, sadness, anxiety, or chronic stress. If you are having trouble managing your emotional distress, it is time to seek help.
13. Join a group that will encourage you. People can feel less alone and more supported in a support group setting.
14. Talk to a trusted, well-known financial advisor. Money worries could arise after losing a job or a property. With the assistance of a financial consultant, you can make plans and gain access to assets.

Climate change means a new world going forward, as all of us have come to realize. This doesn't mean that life can't be pleasant, or we can't experience many of the things that we enjoy, but there will be change. Adopting a more positive attitude is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and for those you love.